Au Bon Climat Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir 2016

Distinctive wines of vision and harmony with a nod to Burgundy, Au Bon Climat features many renditions of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc, with balance and character critical elements in every wine. These wines age beautifully because of their balance and restraint.

The Santa Maria Valley is one of the coolest regions in California, thanks to its direct exposure to the Pacific Ocean. Summer daytime temperatures here rarely exceed 27˚C so the climate is particularly benign for growing Pinot Noir. Jim makes this wine specifically for the UK market and its a helluva good wine. The 2016 is one of the best we've seen, with perfectly balanced fruit and just the right level of spicy background complexity. You won't find a better Pinot Noir for the price.